Research activity, interest and skills in a health and social care setting, a snapshot of a primary care trust in northern England: implications for collaboration and capacity

Abstract

International and UK National Health Service policy has focused attention on the need to develop research capacity in primary care, with the emphasis on collaboration between professional groups and across organizations including health and social care, and the academic context. The results of a survey of research activity, interest and skills in a health and social care community, in Northern England, are reported. The survey targeted primary care trust (PCT) staff, general practice staff and social services staff seconded to the PCT, and a response rate of 31% was achieved. Twelve per cent of respondents were involved in research, with research active professionals typically involved in between one and three projects. PCT staff reported a significantly higher level of research activity, research skills and research interest than general practice or social care staff. The holding of a master's degree was associated with a greater desire to lead or collaborate in research. All three groups expressed a preference for practice-based research training and other forms of research support were identified, including protected time, apprenticeship, mentoring and funding advice. The results of this survey have been valuable in terms of research governance, forming research strategy, and impact on capacity via training and support for the health and social care community within a newly formed research alliance between a district general hospital, a PCT and social services, including an academic advisory group. The paper concludes that a holistic approach to research capacity building should inform changing policy and research funding in the UK.